After reaching 5.8 million people, the vision impact project expands eyecare and ear and hearing care in Kenya

For millions of Kenyans, a simple eye examination, a pair of spectacles, or access to hearing tests can mean the difference between fully participating in daily life and living with an avoidable impairment. Yet many people, particularly in underserved communities, still face barriers to accessing these essential services because of shortages of trained personnel, equipment and specialised care.

Officials from AIC Health Ministries, Tenwek Hospital, and Operation Eyesight Universal and CBM launch the project

The launch of the Vision Impact (VIP) Scale-Up Project 2026-2029 marks a new phase in efforts to expand inclusive eye, ear and hearing care in Kenya. The project aims to strengthen health services in Mombasa, Nakuru and Kakamega counties and is expected to directly benefit approximately 1.27 million people. 

An estimated 7.5 million people in Kenya need eye health services, highlighting the need for greater access to diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. The project will invest in health workers, equipment, infrastructure, data systems and community outreach to help close these gaps. 

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Babar Qureshi, Director of Inclusive Health at CBM, highlighted the importance of investing in the health workforce. 

“A strong and skilled health workforce is at the heart of delivering quality eye, ear and hearing care services. Training healthcare workers across all levels of the health system is essential if we are to reach those most in need,” said Dr. Babar Qureshi. “Screening alone is not enough. Every person identified must have access to timely intervention, treatment and referral to ensure meaningful health outcomes.” 

CBM is implementing the project with AIC Health Ministries, Tenwek Hospital, and Operation Eyesight Universal, in collaboration with national and county governments. 

5.8 million people reached in the first phase

Faith Kasloy, VIP Project Coordinator

At the launch, Faith Kasloy, VIP Project Coordinator, presented the first phase results. 

Phase I reached approximately 5.8 million people across participating counties. The project screened more than 4 million community members and 1.8 million learners for eye conditions, dispensed over 157,000 pairs of spectacles, and supported more than 18,000 cataract surgeries. 

The project also helped strengthen local health systems. The project trained more than 5,000 health personnel, while renovating, equipping, and making eye care facilities more accessible. 

Building on these results, the new phase will strengthen services from community level through to specialised referral hospitals, helping more people access care closer to home and receive timely treatment when needed. 

New equipment expands hearing services 

At the launch, CBM announced a key milestone: specialised ear testing equipment worth more than 17,000 Euro, procured to strengthen ear and hearing care services. 

Until now, only three counties had this type of equipment. The investment will support earlier detection of hearing loss, improve diagnosis and expand access to care for children and adults. 

By improving access to screening, treatment and rehabilitation, the Vision Impact Scale-Up Project aims to help more people participate fully in education, employment and community life while strengthening Kenya's capacity to deliver inclusive health services.